The Temperature for Laying St. Augustine Sod

Unlike other grass species, St. Augustine (Stenotaphrum secundatum) turf is not typically seeded because it spreads easily through above ground stolons. In fact, this warm-season grass is better suited for sprig or sod installation. However, this sun-loving grass cannot be installed just any time of year. You must consider the season and local temperatures for a successful sodding project.

Ideal Temperatures

Choosing the correct temperature range for establishing your St. Augustine grass allows you to quickly fill your yard with healthy turf and prevent widespread weed infestation. The best time to lay your new sod is when night temperatures range between 65 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. With this particular range, daytime air temperatures should be at least 80 degrees Fahrenheit or higher -- this turf species thrives and grows rapidly in hot weather. Try to sod in the early summer when temperatures remain warm for several weeks for proper root establishment and grass blade growth in preferred U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 8 through 10.

Late Sodding

Laying St. Augustine sod in the late summer or early fall is a risky proposition because cooler temperatures are on the horizon. If soil temperatures dip below 55 degrees Fahrenheit, sod roots stop their growth. As a result, the grass does not have sufficient soil establishment to survive the colder months -- significant dieback can occur. St. Augustine turf is naturally dormant in the winter, so it is essential to lay the sod no later than mid-summer for proper soil adhesion and root growth. Nutrients and moisture within the soil sustain the grass until its active growing period next summer.

Early Sodding

Sodding in the spring has its drawbacks because soil and air temperatures are still relatively cool. In fact, sod roots simply remain dormant until temperatures rise. You may see weeds growing between the sod patches after installation if there is any spacing since their roots are actively spreading through the soil. These weeds are stealing nutrients and moisture meant for the St. Augustine sod. If you must lay sod early, try to wait until late spring and position the grass in a sunny area. Any warm temperature exposure stimulates the grass out of dormancy for active growth.

Immediate Turf Care

Because St. Augustine grass prefers hot weather for active growth, water the sod directly after installation. In fact, you might need to lightly water the sod once or twice a day, depending on weather conditions, to keep the soil below moist for root growth. Without consistent moisture, the grass might go dormant or simply die back. Keep all foot traffic and lawnmowers off the grass until it is established. By planting within the correct temperature range, the St. Augustine lawn should be firmly rooted in approximately two weeks.

About the Author

Writing professionally since 2010, Amy Rodriguez cultivates successful cacti, succulents, bulbs, carnivorous plants and orchids at home. With an electronics degree and more than 10 years of experience, she applies her love of gadgets to the gardening world as she continues her education through college classes and gardening activities.